A guide for medical students studying abroad on working in Finland. The path: amanuensis → LK4 → LK5 → licensed physician.
1. What kind of work can you do in years 1–2?
- Care assistant (hoiva-avustaja)
- Practical nurse substitute positions
- Care homes and assisted living
- Hospital assistant roles
- Summer jobs in the social and healthcare sector
Unpaid placements (harkat): they are part of your studies and unpaid, but offer an important first contact with the Finnish healthcare system and help you build a network.
2. Amanuensis post
- Records patient histories and daily notes
- Participates in ward rounds
- Performs basic clinical examinations
- Learns the medical record systems (Pegasos / Omni)
3. Salary (indicative)
- Amanuensis: approx. 1,800–2,400 €/month
- LK4: approx. 2,800–3,800 €/month
- LK5: approx. 3,500–5,000 €/month + supplements
4. LK4 and LK5 (Valvira)
- Apply through Valvira: application + transcript of records + fee
- Rights registered in JulkiTerhikki
5. HUS – applying for placements and amanuensis posts
HUS uses a centralised application system:
hus.fi – apply for a placement
- Applications are submitted through the system
- Email applications are usually not sufficient
- Competition is tough
- Finnish language skills are practically essential
6. Job-seeking strategy
- Apply on time (January–February for summer jobs)
- Send 10–20 applications
- Follow up on your applications
- Call to follow up if needed
7. Common mistakes
- Applying too late
- Insufficient Finnish language skills
- A weak CV or email
- Too few applications
8. Graduation and licensure (Valvira)
- Apply for licensure through Valvira after graduation
- Submit your degree certificate and the required attachments
- Registration in JulkiTerhikki
After licensure you can work independently as a physician in Finland and apply for specialist training.
9. Sources
Summary
Your first job in Finland is the most important step. Invest in language skills, your CV and active job seeking.